Ubuntu provides a variety of tools for system resource management. Matthew Helmke introduces the graphical software management tools that you can use for most of your software management. He also covers monitoring and managing memory and disk storage on your system.

Save 35% off the list price* of the related book or multi-format eBook (EPUB + MOBI + PDF) with discount code ARTICLE.* See informit.com/terms

In this chapter, we look at the options you have to manage your software in Ubuntu. If you are used to an environment where you are reliant on visiting different vendor websites to download updates, you are in for a pleasant surprise. Updating a full Ubuntu installation, including all the application software, is as simple as running the Update Manager program. You will discover just how easy it is to install and even remove various software packages.

Ubuntu provides a variety of tools for system resource management. The following sections introduce the graphical software management tools that you will use for most of your software management. This chapter also covers monitoring and managing memory and disk storage on your system.

Ubuntu Software

Ubuntu Software is a graphical utility for package management in Ubuntu. You can find it in the Applications menu as Ubuntu Software; the package and executable program is named ubuntu-software. Ubuntu Software enables you to easily select and install a large array of applications by using the intuitive built-in search and easy one-click installation. When you open the program, you see the main screen, as shown in Figure 9.1.

FIGURE 9.1 The initial Ubuntu Software screen enables you to browse through packages sorted by groups.

Along the top side of the screen, you have three menu options: All, Installed, and Updates. Just below that is a search bar you can use to search for packages. Scroll down to find software listed by categories.

Installing new software via Ubuntu Software is as simple as finding it in the package list, double-clicking, and clicking the Install button. When you do so, you may be asked for your password; then the application is downloaded and installed. You can remove an application by finding it in Ubuntu Software and clicking the Remove button.